It is likely that Finnigan's death was near the end of Vitali's killing spree, as Vitali could only have obtained Finnigan's sword to run him through with by engaging in a duel like Vitali did with James, which means he likely discovered Vitali's plot, perhaps with James. He was likely to be one of the more hot-headed Skylords, as he engaged in a duel with Vitali rather than telling the others, though it was also possible that he didn't have a chance to run.